Ultra Processed Food Diet for Obesity
(UPFEH Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to understand how ultra-processed foods affect weight and energy use in the body. Participants will follow one of two diets: one where 80% of calories come from ultra-processed foods, and another with just 20%. Researchers will compare energy in stool samples to assess the impact of these diets on energy balance. Ideal candidates have a BMI between 30-40 kg/m², are weight stable, and do their own grocery shopping. Participants must also be willing to use a smartphone app for the study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on diet and health.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you have a history of using anti-obesity medications, you may not be eligible to participate.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that consuming a lot of ultra-processed foods links to weight gain and obesity. Individuals who eat more of these foods are more likely to develop health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. For those whose diet consists of 80% ultra-processed foods, the risk of obesity increases by 72% compared to those who avoid them.
Eating ultra-processed foods also raises the risk of issues like mental health disorders. Even when 20% of calories come from these foods, weight gain and similar health risks can occur. Although these foods offer convenience, the health risks are clear.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Ultra Processed Food Diet for obesity because it explores how varying levels of ultra-processed foods in a diet impact weight management. Unlike traditional weight loss strategies that emphasize reducing processed food intake, this approach allows for a controlled consumption of these foods at two distinct levels: 20% and 80% of the diet. This trial could reveal important insights into how processed foods affect obesity, potentially challenging the current focus on cutting out these foods altogether and offering new dietary guidelines for managing weight.
What evidence suggests that this trial's diets could be effective for obesity?
This trial will compare two levels of ultra-processed food consumption. Studies have shown that consuming large amounts of ultra-processed foods is linked to weight gain and obesity. People who eat more of these foods generally have a higher Body Mass Index (BMI) and larger waistlines. Research found that for every 10% increase in these foods in a person's diet, the risk of obesity rises by 5%. Conversely, eating fewer ultra-processed foods is associated with less weight gain and better health. Reducing these foods might help manage weight and improve health. Participants in this trial will follow a diet consisting of either 80% or 20% ultra-processed foods to evaluate the impact on weight and health.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Faris M Zuraikat, PhD
Principal Investigator
Columbia University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with a BMI between 30-40 who have maintained their weight recently, can use an app throughout the study, do their own grocery shopping, and are generally healthy. It's not for pregnant individuals or those with a history of bariatric surgery or anti-obesity medication use.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Testing
Participants undergo baseline testing including blood draw, metabolic test, and body composition test
Diet Phase 1
Participants follow a diet with either 80% or 20% ultra processed food for two weeks
Washout Period
Participants return to their usual diet and do not participate in research activities
Diet Phase 2
Participants switch to the alternate diet (80% or 20% ultra processed food) for two weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in microbial taxa and fecal energy loss
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Ultra Processed Food Diet (20%)
- Ultra Processed Food Diet (80%)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Columbia University
Lead Sponsor
UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health
Collaborator